Vermaelen has history facing Podolski with both Belgium and Arsenal – and the centre back is convinced that the experienced German is a perfect acquisition.

“I haven’t seen them training with us yet this pre-season because they came to us late after the Euros,” said Vermaelen in an exclusive interview with Arsenal.qq.com, the Club’s Chinese website.

“But of course I know Podolski from the national team when I have seen him play and we played against him last year when we played Cologne. I think he is a great player with a great left foot and a good attitude and discipline as well. I am really happy he is with the Club now.

“Giroud was the top goalscorer in the French League – that says enough.”